Options traders are bracing for a stock-market crash - MarketWatch
1. Demand for out-of-the-money VIX calls has surged, indicating fear of a market crash. 2. S&P 500 and Nasdaq recorded their worst runs since September amidst market struggles. 3. Significant buying observed in high-strike VIX calls, highest volume since May 2024. 4. The VIX spiked above 50 intraday recently, showing heightened volatility concerns. 5. Manufacturing contraction signals potential economic slowdown, affecting investor sentiment.